I don’t know where to even begin. Hopeless by Colleen Hoover BLEW.ME.AWAY. Butterflying Amazing. Colleen Hoover’s first two books, Slammed (see my review here) and Point of Retreat (see my review here) were are both in my favorites of 2012, now Hopeless is right up there with them. Silly me though. I started it on December 23. Was I nuts? When company came for Christmas Eve, I hadn’t even started preparing, and I actually snuck away twice to read a little.
“The sky is always beautiful. Even when it’s dark or rainy or cloudy, it’s still beautiful to look at. It’s my favorite thing because I know if I ever get lost or lonely or scared, I just have to look up and it’ll be there no matter what…and I know it’ll always be beautiful.”
The story started as a sweet, almost young adult story. The main characters are in high school, which is not my favorite age to read about now that my son is in high school. I knew how much everyone was loving this book, so I knew the sweet story would soon become more. But I was unprepared for how much more.
Sky. I love her spunky, quirky, real character and her best friend, and next-door neighbor, Six. Sky has been homeschooled her whole life and her adoptive mom doesn’t believe in technology, so she doesn’t have TV, internet or a cell phone. She has convinced her mom to allow her to attend public school for her senior year. Unfortunately, Six is studying abroad, but that does not deter Sky, so she begins high school alone. Just because she hasn’t gone to school though, doesn’t mean she isn’t known among her peers. Her friend Six, really likes boys and is a bit of a slut. Sky is usually with the ‘friend’. Though she hasn’t gone all the way with any boys, she sneaks them into her room and kisses them all because it makes her feel completely numb, a feeling she welcomes. She emotionally detaches and counts stars on her ceiling.
Until she sees Dean Holder in the grocery store:
“I’ve never been swept off my feet. I don’t get butterflies. In fact the whole idea of being swooned by anyone is foreign to me… Somehow, in the course of sixty seconds, this guy has managed to swoon me, then terrify the hell out of me.”
Immediately in school, Sky is bullied, with tons of dollar bills and notes stuck on and in her locker saying “slut” and “whore” but I loved her attitude:
“Really? Where’s the creativity in that? They couldn’t back it up with an interesting story? Maybe a few details of my indiscretion? If I have to read this shit every day, the least they could do is make it interesting. If I was going to stoop so low as to leave an unfounded note on someone’s locker, I’d at least have the courtesy of entertaining whoever reads it in the process. I’d write something interesting like, ‘I saw you in bed with my boyfriend last night. I really don’t appretiate you getting massage oil on my cucumbers. Whore.’ “
The gorgeous Holder has a reputation as well. For the last year, he was supposedly in juvie for a hate crime against a gay guy (but you know how rumors go). Holder has a tattoo with the word ‘Hopeless’ on his arm. He is intense, a man of few words who thinks very carefully before speaking. He is a young man of contradictions: sweet, sexy, protective and swoony, and closed off, tense and broody. Oh Holder, the more I learned about him, the more I wanted to learn.
“He reacts the way he does because there’s only one side to Dean Holder. Passionate.”
Together, Sky and Holder were amazing. You could feel the connection, the passion, and the witty dialogue between the two of them made the relationship fun to read about.
“Sky, I’m not kissing you tonight but believe me when I tell you, I’ve never wanted to kiss a girl more….but you are not getting kissed tonight. And probably not tomorrow either. I need this. I need to know for sure that you’re feeling every single thing that I’m feeling the moment my lips touch yours. Because I want your first kiss to be the best first kiss in the history of first kisses.”
“He wraps his pinky around mine as if he doesn’t have the strength to hold my entire hand. But it’s nice, because we’ve held hands before, but never pinkies…and I realize that this is another first we’ve passed. And realizing this doesn’t disappoint me, because I know that firsts don’t matter with him. He could kiss me for the first time, or the twentieth time, or the millionth time and I wouldn’t care if it was the first or not, because I’m pretty sure we just broke the record for the best first kiss in the history of first kisses-without even kissing.”
And what a first kiss it was. I wish I could go back in time to have my first kiss with my husband be that monumental. (SIDENOTE: Read Holder’s view of this amazing scene HERE after you finish this book)
“Live. If you mix the letters up in the words like and love, you get live. You can use that word.”
“I live you, Sky,” he says against my lips. “I live you so much.”
So there I was enjoying this amazing YA romance, when at about 60%, BAM! The shit hits the fan. I knew it would…..
“Life is real and sometimes it’s ugly and you just have to learn how to cope.”
___________
“Sometimes you have to choose between a bunch of wrong choices and no right ones. You just have to choose which wrong choice feels the least wrong.”
And it just kept getting worse for them. One reveal after another had me riveted to my kindle, feeling for Sky and Holder the way I never thought I could feel for such a young couple.
“Fuck all the firsts, Sky. The only thing that matters to me with you are the forevers.”
“I want you to keep them open…because I need you to watch me give you the very last piece of my heart.”
Likes (loves):
- Sky: her quirky, I don’t care what anyone thinks attitude.
- Six: her best friend who sends her daily positive, ego building texts.
- Holder: intense, romantic, mature…amazing.
- Breckin, Sky’s new best friend at school.
- Holder’s daily, funny, ego-busting texts.
- The fun banter between the friends.
- The fact that you knew something was up all along, but could never figure it all out until you are meant to.
- How Colleen Hoover can take such dark subject matter and make it an enjoyable to read.
- Though I usually feel 17-18 is too young for so much, in this case it was perfect.
Dislikes:
- Absolutely nothing.
Rating: 5+++ Stars, 2 for heat.
From the title, I was a little concerned about the book, it sounded like it could be a Debbie downer book. But WOW. It was better than I could have ever expected. Colleen has a way of taking what can be such dark depressing subjects and turning what could be hopeless into hopeful. I laughed, I cried, I swooned, I got angry, I held my breath, I sighed, I smiled, and what started out as me ‘living’ this book, turned into to me LOVING this book. This is one story that will stick with me, and I will recommend to anyone. Grab Hopeless now, you won’t regret it.
“And once again in my world full of heartaches and lies, this HOPELESS boy finds a way to make me smile.”
Purchase Hopeless:
Amazon || Nook || iBooks
Hopeless can stand alone, but has two companions so far.
See the Hopeless Series Order here.
Related Posts:
- My Favorite Books of 2012
- Slammed by Colleen Hoover was Life-Changing Good!
- Point of Retreat, The Perfect Follow-Up to Slammed
- Great New Adult Books for Older Teens and Up
Sarah Handrich says
What a wonderful review! This book was absolutely amazing.. I will definitely be reading anything that Colleen Hoover writes! Slammed and Point of Retreat were amazing as well! 🙂
anasdiary says
Thank you! I loved all of her books!
JLClark says
Perfect review, I couldn’t have said it better. I absolutely loved it! I started it the day before a big family turkey dinner – mistake! I had my Kindle next to the stove as I cooked, and also snuck away to the laundry room to read. The only thing that would make it perfect, would be to hear that there is a book # 2 with Holder and Sky!
Addison Footit says
If I hadn’t already read the book I would have after this review! Well written and I loved the pieces you picked out!!
Lisa Ammari says
Wow! I really loved this review! It is exactly how I feel.I will gobble up anything Colleen writes.Her characters and story telling will definitely go down in history!!!!
Jaime Spurlock says
Great review… it makes me want to pick the book up again and read it, even though I finished it a few days ago. Thank you!
Michelle says
Great review! I can not wait to read this book!!
Liz Neil says
Love this!
Kellee says
Beautiful review <3 I can't wait to read this book!! My email is kellee926@hotmail.com
Natalie McNichols says
Great review! I don’t own a kindle or nook. I love the smell and feel of the real thing. Thats why I am waiting (very patiently!) for Hopeless to come out in paperback to read it 🙂
Teri Beth says
This is a great review! I absolutely adored this book! I didn’t think Colleen Hoover could surpass Slammed and POR, but she did with Hopeless! Can’t wait to see what she’ll come up with next 🙂
anasdiary says
The third in the Slammed series! Yay!
Tamara Debbaut says
I’m sooo close to finishing this book and i have just came to a point that broke my heart, it was 5 am in the morning but i had to get up… just couldnt believe it…. I’m afraid what to read next but i hope from the bottom of my heart that everything will get settled in the best possible way.
Alison says
what a great review. Couldn’t have said it better myself. I’m sure if someone hasn’t read this book yet, they will after your review 🙂
Lexie82 says
What a great review. Love the picture of the interlocking pinkies=)
Hopeless was such a fantastic story. Loved it from start to finish.
April Etheridge says
I love love love the pictures used with your review! Fantastic!
I’ve already read and finished Hopeless but your review made me want to pick it up again! Colleen Hoover rocked this.
Ruth says
What a beautiful review on an unforgettable book!
Amy Jones says
Beautiful review for a beautiful book!
Angie Clements says
I’ve already read Hopeless two times, but my friend read it a few days ago and would text to discuss it with me and it made me want to start it again! Just such a captivating story! I lOved every word!
Kelly Lamborn says
LOVE Colleen Hoover!! Can’t wait to read this book 🙂
Cinthya Ch says
Love this book so much, the emotions were so real and the characters were really inspiring. Colleen Hoover is a genius
Christina W says
A great review for a truly amazing book! You captured the essence of the story including quotes from some of my favorite parts! As soon as I finish the book on my table, a re-read of Hopeless is next! I just love Colleen Hoover and rave about her books to everyone!
Meg W says
This is a perfect review and just how I would describe hopeless!!!! This was such a wonderful read 🙂
Wendy says
Oh, my gadsss, I love your review of this, but more importantly is that I LOVE LOVE LOVE this book as much as you. There are absolutely no words…….HOPELESS………..pretty much sums it up, in finding the right words for how I felt while reading this. Oh, and Dean Holder, fuuuuuuuuuuuuuckkkk………….*SWOON* I live him so much. Which brings me to one of my favorite lines EVER in a book: “I want you to keep them open…because I need you to watch me give you the very last piece of my heart.” -Holder.
AMAZING!!!
Jenny Vasquez says
Great review. I’ve read all of Colleen’s books too and completely agree. She’s just amazing. Hopeless is in its own special category. You also picked the perfect quotes 🙂
Momo X. says
Wow, what an amazing review! I loooooove Colleen Hoover’s work so I def cannot wait to read this one!(:
anasdiary says
Thanks so much!
Cassie Hoffman says
LOVE the review! Makes me what to read the book even MORE! I’m dying to read it 🙂
sexyliltinkerbell20(at)yahoo(dot)com
Dylan forte says
This was a great review !
Laura says
This review is just another reason I know I need to bump Hopeless up on my “to read” list! I already knew it was going to be amazing, since I adored Slammed and Point of Retreat and reviews like this are the icing in the cake for me!! Can’t wait to start it!:)
Leslie Cox says
Great review. This is the first book I have finished in 2013 and it’s going to be really hard to top.
Peggy Forshee says
Great review! I love her books and now it is just getting better! My favorite all time author is now Colleen Hoover!!! Love her twist!
Sara says
Read this book on Christmas and still can’t get Holder off my mind!
Justine Zuniga says
What a great review. You highlighted some of my favorite quotes from the book. I had read Slammed and Point of Retreat and loved them. That was the reason I picked up Hopeless. I absolutely love Sky and Holder. Six (Seven) is an amazing best friend and so Breckin. The supporting characters in Hopeless make the story complete. This is probably my favorite book I have read all year and I have read a lot of books. Colleen Hoover is an amazing writer and Hopeless proved that she wasn’t a one story writer. If you haven’t read this book you need to right away!!!!!
Alexandra says
What a great review! I’m really looking forward to read this book. I love Colleen, and I’ve heard only great things about this particular story. I need to pick it up soon!
Jasmine Bohren says
More then excited to read this book, especially after this review!!! I adored her o ther book so I’ll be reading Hopeless next!!!!!!
Kayla says
I finished Hopeless today and OH MY….its definitely one of those CANT PUT DOWN BOOKS!! I love Colleens work and look forward to her next….
Elizabeth Quinones says
What a great review!! Sums up the book perfectly!!
Kasey says
This review was absolutely perfect. Almost as perfect as the book 😉
LOVE all the pictures and quotes you picked. All in all I just LOVE LOVE LOVE this book. I’d recommend it to anyone. Absolutely cannot wait until she writes another one.. in fact, I think I’m just going to keep rereading this one until she does 🙂
Brandi Wa says
Great review, and I agree, this is an amazing book! Some parts were just so heartbreaking, but you put it nicely – Colleen so easily turns “hopeless” into “hopeful.”
Melissa says
What a great review!!!! I felt the same way reading it and like all of your points!!! This was my favorite book and I will read it multiple times just to have some Holder time!!!
ashley says
I absolutely adored this book. It was angsty and insane in the best way possible. I didn’t want it to end. it was just amazeballs. 🙂
Racheal Oeleis says
Hopeless~As Slammed and Point of Retreat WERE my all time favorite in 2012! This lady can write~ Captivate and tell a story that has a reader wanting more and hoping the book never ends. I picked up Hopeless and could not put it down until I had compltely finished. I couldn’t wait for Holder to kick his Dad’s ass~And the intriguement of trying to figure out how him and Sky were connected. Well, I could just go on and on…. TwO WoRDS… BUTTERFLYING INCREDIBLE!!!
Racheal Oeleis says
*completely
Aleasha says
What a great review. Colleen blew me out of the water with this one. Loved it!!
Look forward to reading some of your other reviews. 🙂
Emma Harris says
Have got this on my kindle, can’t wait to start reading it….. Sounds amazing 🙂
Lora says
Butterflying awesome review, I’m ready for a second read. Anything Colleen is amazing, bring on a new book asap, woman 🙂
Carol Ann Newsome says
Wow – I had to stop reading this review a few paragraphs in. That gave me enough to let me know that this is a unique story, and I want to be totally surprised by everything else. I’ve already bought the eBook, but knowing myself, I haven’t started it yet. I’ll come back when I’m done, I promise!
Negeen Hogan says
What a beautiful review. I couldn’t have said it better myself. I absolutely love this book and I could not put it down. I read it in one day. I fell in love with the characters and I too found myself smiling as I read (which is rare) and crying and just falling in love with Sky and Holder. Hopeless is a must read!
Megan Thornborrow says
I really enjoyed this book. Really, really. Couldn’t stop reading. I recommended it to my friends before I was even finished. I’m ready to read it again!
slucero says
Loved HOPELESS….the review, (most def would make you want to read if I hadn’t just finished it.)…was amazing….I couldn’t put it down…and loved how you are drawn into the story…Great Book….Awesome Job. Colleen, love your books!!
Janet W. says
I know Colleen will not disappoint me and I’m waiting until I have time to devote my attention to HOPELESS. I want no distractions or interruptions! Should be able to make that happen next week! Can’t wait!
Jenny says
This review said it all! I absolutely loved this book. Colleen is an amazing writer and I know with 10000000% certainty that I will read anything and everything she ever writes!!
Deanna says
I adored this book and anything by Hoover! Awaiting the release of Hopeless, I read Reasons to Breath after Slammed and POR. I swear NOTHING compares to Hoovers imagery and words! I butterflying love reading Hoover books!
J.D. Chase says
What a fabulous, comprehensive review. This book is on my very long TBR list – I am sooooo bumping it up to the top now! But then, I adored the other two books and I felt bereft when I finished them. I moped for days! Keep them coming Ms Hoover!
Barb says
Colleen Hoover is by far my favorite author. After reading Slammed, it instantly became my favorite book. That was until I read Hopeless. It’s now my new favorite (at least until she publishes her next book which will probably become my next favorite). Such a butterflying amazing storyteller. Where was this talent hiding before 2012?
Charli Prater says
This was the absolute best book I have EVER READ!
Melanie Fleischhauer says
I loved Hopeless!! Another great book by Colleen Hoover!!
Dana says
This book is nothing short of perfection. I loved every single moment of it. I laughed, cried, and gasped so many times. After finishing, I was speechless-there were no words but I did have an ugly cry face. Amazing!!!
Kristy S says
Nice review! I loved Hopeless so much. 🙂
Celine Smith says
You have put into words everything I felt about this book and couldn’t articulate! Hopeless is a must read for everyone, I know that it has irrevocably changed something in me…
Ava says
Awesome review, I absolutely adored this book!
Heather S. says
Loved your review and if I hadn’t already read and loved this book, I would definitely get right to reading.
Trinity Higinbotham says
Loved your review almost as much as I love Colleen Hoover!
Sarah says
Wow, this was an amazing review! I will be following your blog now! 🙂
anasdiary says
YAY!!!! Thanks!
Paula Novack says
I couldn’t have said it better! Loved your review and loved this book!
Lynn says
A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!!!! Slammed and Point if Retreat were incredible but Colleen just out did herself with Hopeless!
Jennifer says
Great review, I have been waiting for it. I am clicking on the link to buy it right now.
Jessica L says
I really liked this book a lot. I hadn’t read anything other than the blurb before I picked it up, and WOW! what a great read! I laughed, I swooned, I cringed, I cried. This book had it all. Great review!
kelly watson says
Awesome review! Cannot wait to read it!
Kim Reisdorf says
What a great review. Just as great as the book. I couldn’t put it down, found myself talking outloud and falling in love with Sky and Holder.kimmotzer@hotmail.com
Amanda M says
I love, love, loved this book. Colleen Hoover is a great author and can not get enough of her books.
Maanika says
What a wonderful review! I loved Slammed (haven’t been able to read Point of Retreat yet, though), and can’t wait to read Hopeless!
Monica Pipes says
Excellent review. Hopeless was amazing… I am “hopeful” that there will be more coming for this amazing group of characters! I love Colleen Hoover!
Shannon Fuhrman says
Great Review!! Took the words right out of my mouth!! That Colleen Hoover sure does have a way with words!
Danielle Tiegen says
Thank you for such a powerful review. I have been telling everyone I know to read the book, but when they ask what it is about I can’t seem to find the words. I will definiately be directing them to this review now. All I could tell them before was that it was better than words could express. Your words help – but I still think it is even better!
anasdiary says
Thank you, and I absolutely agree!
Missy Swain says
AH-MAZING review! AH-MAZING Book! Collen Hoover is simply AH-MAZING!
Samantha Daly says
Finished this book over a week ago and still find myself reliving certain parts and quotes of the book in my head daily, it really is a book that stays with you. Awesome review, couldn’t have put it better.
Nancy L.R says
I really enjoy reading your reviews! This one is no different. I cannot wait to read this book, I’ve read nothing but amazing things about it! Colleen is such an amazing writer!
Michelle says
Out of all the reviews I’ve read, I really enjoyed reading your review and your set-up. Colleen Hoover is amazing and Hopeless is one of my new favourite books!
Nikole says
Wasn’t her book the best!!! Love Hoover!
Amanda Smith says
Absolutely spot on. I loved this book so much I stayed up til after 3am and completely killed the battery on my nook. I was honestly one of my favorite books ever!
Beth R says
I loved this book and wish I could have written why I loved it as well as you did.
Erika says
Absolutely amazing review! I LOVED the book as well and read it in one sitting while i was under the weather last week. Wonderful!
Jenny says
Phenomenal book. I read it last week, but I’m already ready to read it again!
Andrea K says
Great review! Thanks so much. I’m bumping this one up on my TBR list.
sehr says
I LOVE THIS BOOK 😀 I LOVE ALL COLLEEN’S BOOKS!!! I would love a signed paperbook copy 🙂
Suzanne says
I totally agree with this review. I started it in the evening, not the smartest move I know, and had to keep reading until I finished it. But even after I finished the book, it kept me thinking, amazed. Even now, almost a week later, I find myself reading whole passages again, which I do not do often :-). Colleen Hoover, after Slammed and Point of No Retreat, you have written yet another completely awesome and amazing book. Please keep writing :-).
Andrea Silva says
First off, I bought Hopeless in December but with the flu and many many many issues that have unfortunately kept me busy I haven’t started reading. Now Hopeless is my book club’s January pick and after reading this review I am starting it today! Also, I totally relate about sneaking off to “do something” so I can read a little. Lol. Thanks so much for the review. I can’t wait to amstart reading!
Beth says
Awesome review! I LOVED Hopeless! That pic of the ceiling with the “stars” is awesome!
Heather says
I wrote on good reads that I devoured this book…honestly, I was reading on my iphone Nook App one paragraph at a time in order to keep reading during the day while my kids played….I was consumed. Just as this reviewer said she was sneaking in reading during christmas company…that’s how I felt too. It has been a long time since a book has grabbed hold of me like this…I sort of felt this way with Beautiful Disaster, maybe when I read The Time Traveler’s Wife??? All I know if that as I read I knew what was coming and I just hoped it wasn’t true. It was a roller coaster emotional read that I am still thinking about and recommending to other contemp romance fans. Now I am wondering how much time I need to put between the 1st and 2nd reading. THANKS and I hope Colleen Hoover keeps writing and writing (no pressure). 😉
Kylee M. says
I LOVE that you rate books by heat also, that’s really unique and something I’ve never seen. I also really like how you pulled quotes from the book as examples, I think it’s a great way to show how awesome the book was and get others to read it. Loved this awesome review and love Colleen’s writing. 😀
Jaclyn S. says
Love this review …
“I want you to keep them open…because I need you to watch me give you the very last piece of my heart.”
Amazing quote ….
Lorisha says
Love loved Hopeless!!!!!
Paulina says
There’s only once in a while where I can read a book and it sticks with me long after I’ve finished it. This was one of those books. Half of me couldn’t wait to to finish it, and a really big part of me didn’t want to finish it because then it would have been over. It’s been over a week or two and it’s still there in the forefront of my mind and i’m recommending it to everyone i know who loves to read as much as i do. This is one of those books that as a reader you hope you’re lucky enough to find. I’m so glad I found this one.
Elly says
This is one of the most AMAZING books I have read. The characters are so well developed. They grabbed a hold of me and didn’t let go. I didn’t want this story to end. Keep going Colleen….
Kim L says
Great Review!!! I read the book in one sitting, I could not put it down!! I can’t wait to see what Colleen gives us next 🙂
Annie says
Awesome review! You nailed it. I loved this book.
Sarah Kotrba says
I had no reservation about reading this book regardless of the discription after reading Slammed and Point of Retreat I knew I would love anything Colleen Hoovewr wrote and she did not disappoint!! All three books are in my top three. Can’t get over what an awesome writer she is. You laugh, you cry, you hold your breathe all while reading this book. You feel like you know the charater or want to know them just the way I want to feel when reading a book. Love Love Love!!!
Lani Hanson says
Loved the review and definitely loved Hopeless. Can’t wait to read Point of Retreat next.
Tara garcia says
I absolutely loved this book.
Loved it for being so different than slammed and point of retreat! Bravo for Colleen Hoover !! And lucky us!
layls says
I’ m dying to read Hopeless more now after reading this review. I love Colleen Hoover!! Still swooning over Will<3
Marie Paullus says
What a totally Bemazing Book! Colleen is a butterflying talented writer. Love, love, love her! Can’t wait for more to come. <3
Kayleigh Woods says
I love the review for ‘Hopeless’. I love the style of her writing. I can’t wait to read Hopeless for myself! 🙂 Love it!!! 😀
julie n says
Great review! I love the way this author writes. I’ve read all 3 of her books and she gets better with each book. I have to disagree with the heat rating though. 🙂 That “non kiss” was pretty hot in my book!
Nicoleta Dumbrava says
Fantastic review! I loved, loved Hopeless and I will read anything that Colleen writes. She can write instructions for a receipe and I would read them!!! 🙂
jessica little says
Loved the review! Can’t wait to read this one!
Amanda crick says
Just finished the book this weekend and it was AMAZING!!! I didn’t have any expectations but I wasn’t disappointed at all. Colleen is an amazing author and I can’t wait to read more!
Lisa Farhana says
Great review! Man, I wish I could be as articulate.
But yes, Hopeless is butterflying AWESOME! Ended my 2012 with a bang 🙂
Karese Blackwell says
‘HOPELESS’ was a painfully beautiful story, definitely one of my favorites reads, ever. Colleen Hoover is an amazingly talented author. All 3 of her books are in my top favorite reads! Great review! Thanks! 🙂
Cinthya says
Great review!!!! Love everything about the book
Michaela Rodriguez says
This book leaves a mark on your heart. Can’t stop telling people about it.
Sarah says
Best story. Ever.
Brooke D says
I haven’t read this book but your review really makes me want to! Just the bits and pieces you quoted captures my attention right away! I really want to go get this book now 🙂
Thanks for this great review!!
anasdiary says
Thanks for reading it!
Kristi says
Great book! I told all my friends to buy it!!!!
Lorie says
Great review!!!! Colleen Hoover is a genius, isn’t she?? LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE everything about Hopeless.
Patty Euefueno says
WOW!!! What an amazing review. I must say that i whole heartely agree. Hopeless made me weak in the knees. I cried, laughed, sighed, held my breath at least several hundred times. I have read many books, and by far Hopeless is my favorite one. Everyone needs to read the journey of Sky & Holder. Love is so powerful and can conquor all. <3
Christine M says
Awesome review!! One of my fav books EVER!!!
Amanda Mason says
I couldn’t put down Slammed and then Point of Retreat. I thought I couldn’t get any more emotionally involved in two characters, but then I read Hopeless. Great review! Age is definitely a number in Collen Hoover’s books. Anyone can relate to these young characters with life experience beyond their years. I can’t wait for more.
Jen O. says
I loved this book so much I have a hard time putting it into words. Colleen Hoover hasn’t disappointed me yet!
ashlee says
Absolute favorite book this year u wrote a groovy spot on review of this breathtaking kinda lifechanging book.
This book is just.. WOW
…
Mary says
I absolutely agree with this review…Colleen has blown me away with all her books and I have to say is one of my absolute fave authors!!!
Kelli B says
Excellent review of a bemazing book!!!!
Nicole Jaurigue says
I LIVE YOUR REVIEW!!! That is also what I felt during and after reading Hopeless. I can’t even put my feelings into words. So thank you for writing a great review. I really love Colleen Hoover and her books. I’m recommending it to all of you! Go!
Kimberly Marriott says
I read 270 books in 2012, and Hopeless was, without a doubt, one of the best. If you haven’t read it yet, you need to stop what you are doing and read it right now.
Michele Catalano says
I stayed up late this past Monday because I NEEDED to know how Hopeless ends. This book is such a treasure and I couldn’t find the right words to express how touching and wonderful this is. I was trying to find words when I was recommending it to my cousins at NYE party. I am also currently rereading it right now. I don’t do that often and am quite enjoying it as i did the first time. I can’t wait to start reading more of Colleen Hoover’s books.
If you haven’t bought yourself a copy, it’s def a must read and you wont be disappointed.
Christine says
I absolutely adored Slammed and Point of Retreat, so I’ve obviously been looking forward to this one as well. But after reading your review and the little teaser quotes you included, I HAVE to read this ASAP. Thanks for the awesome review! 😀
Linda Stansfield says
Great review for a fantastic book, loved the details in the review. I too rate the book a 5 plus, plus. I am an older reader, my baby is 20 and even though Sky and Holder are teenagers, as a mom, I totally could relate to the story, their characters, everything in this book…….it is absolutely my fave read for 2012. I also totally appreciated and loved the bonus chapter in Holder’s POV.
Amanda Jackson says
I have read Colleen’s Slammed and Point of Retreat Books….which I absolutely loved. And, this one is on my TBR pile. I have seen tons of hype about this book, but your review was GREAT! I love how you broke down the characters…it has me intrigued. I will definitely be picking this one up on pay day:)
Cynthia Gasparro says
I loved this book. Such an original story!!
Gina says
Absolutely loved loved loved this book! What an amazing read worth way more than 5 stars!!
Becky K. says
Great review! This was by far one of my top reads of 2012 for so many different reasons. I absolutely loved Sky and Holder.
tangerine oliver says
“So there I was enjoying this amazing YA romance, when at about 60%, BAM! The shit hits the fan. I knew it would…..” EXACTLY!!! I cannot express in words how much I loved this book. Your review pretty much sums it up. Ms. Hoover is absolutely amazing. I knew I would like this book since I liked Slammed and Point of Retreat but little did I know how much I would love it. That kiss…man, oh, man…who doesnt want to go back in time and change their first kiss?? I am still at a loss for words on how I feel about this book…loving it just doesnt sound like I am giving it the credit it so deserves…I’ve loved alot of books…I will just say that I lived it…I freakin’ lived it! Thank you again Ms. Hoover.
Faith D. says
Great review! I’ve been waiting for this to come out but when it finally did, I have a long list to to read and now I still haven’t read it yet! But I know this is an awesome read because Colleen Hoover wrote it! Hehe.
Cynthia says
This was my first Colleen Hoover book and won’t be my last, already reading Point of Retreat. Hopeless blew me away what a story so beautifully written and told. Well dobe Colleen!
Debra D says
Love love loved the book and agree with the review! Heavy subject matter that never overwhelmed me!
Beth says
I read this book in one night!
I must tell you, I am 47 years old and this isn’t the type of book I usually read but, after reading “Slammed” and “Point of Return”, I really wanted to see what Ms. Hoover had in store for me. I felt, at many times, that I was reading a story of my life. Although it was not action for action my life, it was close enough that I could feel my skin prickle at the similarities.
Needless to say, I cried at many parts, laughed at many parts, and my heart was moved by the love and devotion that Sky and Holder had for each other.
I adore the writing style and admire the way in which Ms. Hoover shows sensitivity and compassion for her characters.
Can’t wait to read more from her!
crystal pittman says
Wow wow wow!!! I have been wanting to read this book and i do even more now! I already read the synopsis for this book BUT this review alone makes me over eager to read it!!!!!!! Wow!!!!! Awesome review!!!
anasdiary says
Thanks :blushing:
Magda says
What a great review. Reliving the book all over again. I went through so many emotions reading HOPELESS. I read both Slammed and Point of Retreat and couldn’t wait for Colleens next book. She did not let me down. Not even close. She blew me away with this book. Adding HOPELESS to my top books along with SLAMMED and Point of Retreat.
Daniel Smith says
I had to read this book a second time I loved it so much. I read it to my wife the second time.
britica pratt says
This book quickly claimed my #1 favorite book! I can relate so deeply to this book its scary. I had such a range of emotions while reading it..i felt exhausted and resolved all at the same time. Ive been raving about it until my friends literally were telling me to clam down and promise theyd read it asap! Haha! So thank you Colleen Hoover for yet again another beautiful piece of your mind.
Ann says
I “live” the review. Never had read Colleen Hoover before after Slammed and Point of Retreat all within 4 days!
Brittanie says
This book is on my tbr list but I haven’t got around to reading it yet. After this review I may have to change that though. I simply must read this book ASAP!
Erin Bailey says
Awesome review!! I have convinced 5 people to read Hopeless..one of which is not a reader at all..everyone loved it!
Vicki says
Great review for a great book. I laughed when you described how you felt at abut that 60% mark…when I got there I just said ‘oh shit’ and had to read it again to see I read that right. Then, I couldn’t put it down. I was up until about 1:30am to finish this….I just had to know how it was going to end.
Dominique L. says
I LIVED this book….and fell hopelessly in love with Sky and Holder! Colleen You could write the phone book and make it amazing! Hoover is easily my favorite author of 2012…and I’m looking forward to what she brings in 2013 and beyond. I am such a fan!
Viviana Varona says
One of my favorite books. I have made all my friends read it and so far everyone has loved it too.
Sam Ketcher says
Awesome review! U took every thought I had about this books and wrote it an awesome review!!!!! Great job!
Jennie says
Ok, so I loved her other books as well… Of course!
I have been keeping up with most books these days (literally reading everyday almost constantly). So, I was pleasantly suprised to read this book. There have been very few that have captured my attention as Hopeless. I completely agree with everything said in this blog.
Amazing!
Katy says
Absolutely LOVED this book! In fact, I think I must be having some kind of book hangover because every other book I have started since has just been ho-hum!!
Jeanette says
Great review on a wonderful 3rd book!! Colleen Hoover is making it difficult for others to meet my expectations now!!!!
Tristine says
I love all her books and this was no exception! It was beautiful.
Amy Funabashi says
Wow. This review is phenomenal. It has all the elements needed to drag any reader or human being in making them want to read Hopeless or the other books you’ve reviewed. You reviewed this book so elegantly and beautifully. The right quotes that didn’t give the whole book away but made you wanting more. After this review I wouldn’t be surprised if someone bought this book because of you. Me being a complete bookaholic I’m always looking for new books to read but reviews like this really bring me to reading them. Thank you! (:
Amy Funabashi says
If you ever feel like giving a list of books you haven’t reviewed online that you loved would you please email me a list? I love talking about books with other people and sharing opinions haha. If so my email is amyfunbash@gmail.com thanks! (:
Bea Tejano says
I absolutely loved this as well!:) I finished it last Dec 28th and it was just so intense and emotional. My favorite parts were the hilarious moments between Sky and Holder
.Great review by th way!:)
Krista says
Couldn’t have said it better!! Her books, this one in particular took my breath away!
Jessica George says
I loved this book!
Mauline Gonzales says
I have already read Hopeless and Wow! The quotes you highlighted are all my favorites..
And I totally agree on you with this: “Colleen has a way of taking what can be such dark depressing subjects and turning what could be hopeless into hopeful.”
I know right? She’s awesome. Inspired me to live my life to the fullest.
Anyways, great review! and Happy New Year! 🙂
Alexandra says
I couldn’t agree more. Hopeless is amazing. One of the best reads of 2012. Colleen is getting better with each book. And I adore Slammed series. So can’t wait for the 3rd book 🙂
Robin prete says
Loved this review!!!! You nailed it with the favorite quotes!!! This book was so riveting I have to own it in hard copy!
Debbie Whalen says
Great review!
This book was one the best books I’ve read! I have one problem though. Every book I’ve read since Hopeless has been just blah to me. I can’t shake Holder & Sky. Coleen Hoover has an amazing gift!!!
Lori says
I live Breckin! Such an awesome character, I want one of my own. This was definately in my top five books of the year. Amazing!
Andrea says
Awesome review! This book is my all-time favorite!
Stacy Pasker says
Awesome review! I loved this book and couldn’t stop reading it. Colleen Hoover never disappoints.
Trisha R. says
I absolutely loved this book. SO. SO. MUCH. Awesome review! I loved the quotes you pointed out. They were the ones I highlighted. 😉 Colleen Hoover’s books are intense, beautiful and butterflying bemazing. <3 Can't wait for Slammed # 3.
vicky moreno says
A book that I have recommended several times with complete faith that it will be loved by friends as much as I love it and it has been well received by all!
Although it is a little odd reading books about young adults (I am 37), I find that Hoover writes a storyline so deep & compelling about issues that are real & all too familiar for some & she is giving a voice to many who have silenced themselves. The love between the characters is one that I think many hope to feel once in their lifetime, even if it means we have to undergo a trauma to enable us that experience.
Finally, the respect for young love is what I truly admire. I married my high school sweetheart and at times I felt a little silly admitting it, but if there were more books available while I was a teen with young love being represented with the respect Hoover offers, then I would have felt less naive or perhaps a bit more proud admitting having married by high school sweetheart. Well, it only took 22yrs for me to find an author like Colleen Hoover to make my young love seem less trivial & to give it the respect it deserves. Holder & Sky / Hope forever!
anasdiary says
I met my husband at 19, I’m in my 40s now…..I know what you mean.
Karine says
I haven’t read Hopeless yet, because I’m kind of old-fashioned and would rather read it in paperback (and trust me, waiting is getting harder and harder and driving me nuts, but I want to have the FEELING of holding a book in my hands while reading Hopeless, which I know is going to be AMAZING).
And I loved your review. I’ve read many reviews of this book, and yours caught my attention in a way most didn’t. I like how you support every argument and comment with wonderful quotes, and how your passion show through your writing (which only increased my impatience and excitement!).
Also, you’re right about “How Colleen Hoover can take such dark subject matter and make it an enjoyable to read”. I’ve read Slammed and Point of Retreat, which showed how there’s always a flicker of light and hope, even in the darkest moments.
I can’t wait to read this book!! Arrggh
Lexi Edwards says
Seriously can’t wait to read this! Loved Slammed and Point of Retreat 🙂
Maria Malaveci says
Amazing review, and I have read many for “Hopeless” Please pick me, I am Hopelessly wanting to read this……!
mmalavec(at)med(dot)umich(dot)edu
Adriana says
Wow, you picked some of my favorite quotes! I too just loved the characters and how the story just captures you from the beginning and continually gets the reader more involved! I read it twice, back to back. Great review!!!
Jamie Alesci says
What a great review! Many of your comments mirrored my experience. Reading it right before Christmas… sneaking in chapters in between wrapping presents. Love Colleen’s books!!! Looking forward to Will’s story:)
jill callahan says
When I read the story something drew me in closer than most books, I didn’t feel I was watching from the bleachers, I felt I was right there on the playing field with Sky and Holder. Colleen somehow made me ‘feel’ as the story unraveled, as if I were sitting in the roller coaster right beside them and experiencing the highs and lows in the same way at the exact same time. How the heck did she do that?
I neglected my friends and family on the first day of 2013 and it reminded me of when I first discovered the joy of reading as a young girl and couldn’t get enough of the world of make believe.
Great story, great characters…wish I hadn’t read it yet so I could read it all over again!
I want to see the movie…I hope that is next for Hopeless!
Cassandra Hake says
This was a great review!! I loved this book it is my favorite!!! 🙂
Melissa Day says
What a great review and I couldn’t agree with you more. Hopeless held me captivated to the very last sentence. This is not the genre I usually read and I wouldn’t have picked it up if it weren’t for reviews like yours so thanks for writing a rave one because this book should be read by millions!
Truly, I finished the book days ago and today I got goosebumps thinking about it. Cudos to Colleen and great appreciation for giving us such a beautiful and powerful story.
Carlie says
I have a couple authors that I liked on FB hoping that since I read all of their books already that they would refer me to some other authors that I can look into. I was blessed to have Author Jamie McGuire comment the other day about this book. I was excited because I had just finished a book and was really sad that I didn’t know what to read now. I went on barnesandnoble.com and bought it right then for my Nook Tablet. WOW!!! I was up till 5 am reading it the first night. Then I had to wake up with my 2 year old at 7 am. I finished reading it within a day in a half it was so good. I was blown away with this book. The story is just so amazing and I laughed out loud so much at the relationship and personality they were together. I cried too! This book was for sure without a doubt my favorite book that I have read in 2012.I LOVE THIS BOOK!! I am sad that it is over, but I look forward to buying and reading her first two books and look forward to other books she wrights in the future!
Michelle Lovell says
What a great review for this book. I read this book about a week ago and the whole time I was reading I was gripped to my phone (because that’s where I read most of my books. So easy to carry around and get a few pages in). There was no putting it down.
I have to say, Colleen Hoover DEFINITELY has a way with words. To say the least. I wish I was a writer just so I could put into words how much I loved this book. LOVED IT!!
Debbie says
Great review! Colleen just keeps getting better. Waiting impatiently for the next!
Kamie says
Outstanding review! I absolutely love Colleen Hoover’s writing style in all 3 of her books. Kudos and congratulations to an outstanding beginning to 2013!
Susú says
Great review! I’ve read Slammed and PoR and i was waiting for another Colleen book 🙂 I definitely want to read this book and now I’m going crazy after the quotes you put here!
Greetings from Peru 😀
Misty Trevino says
Colleen was right! This is a wonderful review. It helped me to relive this wonderful book again. I am definitely a Hoover fan and will look forward to what ever this woman writes next! My favorite part, the meaning of Hopeless! Loved, loved, loved it!
Trish Gibson says
I read this book the other day and it was awesome. It had me with the first page and it never let go. Totally didn’t go the way I thought and I was glad at that. For anyone that hasn’t read this book should get it now. I got a nook at christmas just for the fact that I hear about all of these great books that are out but you can’t get them as soon as you can on nook. I would rather hold a real book in my hand, but I got tired of waiting. I wish they would come out at the same time as digital is released. Thanks for the great read. 🙂
Diane Andréa says
Great review. I couldn’t agree more. There was nothing about this book I did not like. Perfection!
anasdiary says
Thank you all for your wonderful comments. I’m sorry I haven’t responded to all of you, but rest assured I have read every single response! Though I feel that the review didn’t even do the book justice, I really appreciate the positive feedback and hope you all keep coming back for more! Check out my other two giveaways going on now (see the upper right of my blog for more)
Michelle O'Brien says
Perfect review that mirrored my thought & feelings exactly.Hopeless is a deeply emotional story with such depth I found it hard to breathe a times when I was reading it. Colleen Hoovers talent is amazing yet again. Thanks for such a great review
Kaysi says
I agree. This book was utterly amazing! I don’t normally like books with such “heavy” subject matters, but this book blew my mind (as per my comments on goodreads, but they are mainly about Holder).
I have to disagree with only 2 heat stars – I thought for its genre, it pushed the limits, and without wandering into a different genre, I didn’t think it could get any better. Especially when nothing happened – it was no doubt my favourite non-event ever!
Rochelle says
What a great review!! I totally agree with you!! I was butterflying blown away!! After I read slammed and P.O.R It was hard to find something else that compared!! Then bam Colleen comes out with this!! To say she is AMAZING is an understatement. I could read it again and again!!!
Samien Newcomb says
I had a very hard time writing a review for this book. This one is great!! I would read this book again. I’m not sure a sequel is needed. Theirs was a great ending.
LaurenR says
One of the most amazing books I’ve ever read!! Colleen truly has a gift for writing in such a beautiful way that really makes you connect with the characters.
emanuela says
I loved slammed and point of retreat. I loved so much hopeless. colleen is by far my favorite young adult writer 🙂
Stacey Kennard says
Couldn’t agree more 5+ stars, it really was a breath taking book, I read it twice in 4 days loved it so much can’t wait to get a paperback/hardcover
Joelle Caroline Foronda says
I absolutely love this review! I love Colleen’s books and I think this one’s the best <3
Artemis says
What a beautiful post!!! This book sounds amazing.
Jo Cowan says
Amazing review for an amazing book! I couldn’t have put it better myself. I discovererd Colleen Hoover in November when i read Slammed and then Point of Retreat. I love her style of writing, how she can get you so immersed in the characters that you feel all the emotions they do.
I’m glad I’m not the only mother who enjoys the YA genre. I have been with my husband since I was 16, we married at 21 and we’re 38 now with 4 children. People are often surprised when I say how long we’ve been together. I like these books showing couples getting together at a roughly the same age I was – makes me feel a bit more normal!
Jan Bethel Alson says
I fell in love with Colleen’s works ever since SLAMMED. And boy! This book made it to my top ten favorite books of all time. HOPELESS, taught me how to be HOPEFUL despite it all. And to always count the forevers and not just the firsts. Wonderful review! 🙂
laura says
I loved this book, i love all of Colleen Hoovers books.
Jenn C says
It’s a beautiful thing to be able to escape into a realm of happiness, love, sadness, confusion and betrayal. You have a magical ability as a writer. This story took my breath away from one chapter to the next. Very well done and thank you, this is one book that I will be sure to tell all my reader friends and book club to read.
Raelene says
Wow- I have never decided that a book is the Best. Book. Ever. just by reading a review! Guess I need to read this one ASAP! Go Colleen Hoover!
Patrice says
Great review. I loved Slammed and Point of Retreat, and now, more in love with Hopeless. Talk about OMG moments. At some point, I think I stopped breathing until the book was done. Now, I wait, impatiently, for Will’s POV.
Tahnee says
OMG all I can say is this book was absolutely hands down the book oh the year(2012 although i read it yesterday) for me, this review made me so excited I started reading it and with in an hr I texted all my gf’s to get it and the feedback has been great, it was an accident to stumble across this review and I’m so glad I did!!
Noelle says
I just started reading this year. I have read 42 books since April and I have to say that this was my FAV!!! This book had me with so many emotions that I never thought were possible from a book. Thank you for the review– I will be reading more of Colleen’s books.
katrina whittaker says
I just read this book last night and I was slammed to the Point of No Retreat lol – 5 am to bed.. I devoured this in one sitting. Wrote reviews for Colleen – on gr and amazon and spread the love.. This book was just wow !!! I cant wait to read her others !
kat
kittee_cat@bigpond.com
Erin Hill says
Still haven’t read this on. All I hear is AMAZING things about it. I need to get on it!!!!!!
Somi says
What a wonderful review! And the comments! Now I just have to read this book.
Pam Nelson says
Your review is why I read this book and OMG it was everything and more. I don’t know how I will get Hope/Sky and Holder out of my head. Sigh great one hell of a book. Thank you for your review <3